Umunthu Plus Organisation has scaled up its efforts to empower local committees in Nkhotakota with skills to promote peace in the lakeshore district.
Speaking on Tuesday during a two-day peace-building training in the district, the organisation’s gender officer Andrew Chikasamba said they are promoting the advocacy plan which is key to peace-building.
He said they want to raise awareness and influence decision-makers to prioritise peace, unity and development in their communities.
Said Chikasamba: “Dealing with conflicts requires coordination with different stakeholders and duty-bearers.
“That is why we thought it wise to engage the peace-building and unity committee to support efforts in addressing the root cause of conflicts in the district.”
On his part, Nkhotakota District Peace-Building and Unity Committee member, village head Nyanje from Traditional Authority Kanyenda, described the training as crucial in providing important messages on how to handle conflicts and prioritise peace in communities.
“The training has tackled important areas such as the strategic plan that will help drive change in the society and bring peace and unity among people,” he said.
Nyanje said land disputes, encroachment of protected areas, illegal mining and power struggles contribute to conflict in the district, adding that there is need to address these disputes to create a peaceful environment.
The District Peace and Unity Committee chairperson Joyce Banda commended Umunthu Plus for its persistent efforts in supporting peace-building efforts.
She said the training imparted important knowledge to the district peace building and unity committee members and other stakeholders.
Jennifer Chilonga, a community member, said conflict resolution skills were crucial, especially in the face of disputes bordering on land and encroachment into protected areas.
“We need to know what people should do right to prevent conflicts,” she said.
The training was conducted with support From Women’s Peace and Humanitarian.
